You may have noticed common symptoms among patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), such as: change in body weight, changes in the menstrual cycle, increased ovaries, hirsutism and sterility. Nowadays, it is known that obesity is one of the main causes and not just one of the symptoms for the onset of the disease. And therefore, many studies show that the treatment of obesity is an effective method for controlling this condition in women. In this way, weight loss should be done with multidisciplinary follow-up for correct diagnosis of the cause, which is most often related to emotional eating, as in eating disorders. So, if you want to lose weight and have polycystic ovary syndrome, keep reading that we’ll explain more to you.
The communication that takes place in the body
Regulation of hunger and satiety involves hormonal signs digestive tract and adipose tissue. In addition, the Food intake is also related to the feeling of pleasure by activating neurotransmitters associated with reward action and happiness, such as dopamine and serotonin. The increase in symptoms of depression and anxiety in polycystic ovary syndrome, are the effect of negative emotions related to the increase of androgen hormones, infertility and obesity. In this way, the increased cortisol level by suppressing the release of dopamine and serotonin in the body.
Risk factors for eating disorders
Eating disorders are a broad spectrum of mental disorders that considerably affect health in general. That is why the look of a professional should take into account the genetic predisposition, personality traits, neuropsychological functioning, reward system activity, family standards, social media, stressful events during life.
Lose weight with polycystic ovary syndrome?
There are many myths associated with difficulties in weight control in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. And the the main reason for the treatment not being effective is the lack of recognition of the cause, often related to emotional changes affecting diet. Disruptions in the reward system prevent the long-term implementation of lifestyle changes. In addition, the Food care and mental health should not be something based so on BMI but implemented during all routine visits of women to help prevent the development of obesity.
Clinical practice
It is possible to lose weight even during polycystic ovary syndrome. However, as the syndrome is a hormonal change that often accompanies negative emotions in women, because of the changes and uncertainties that affect the body at this stage. The feeding becomes an escape valve for symptoms of anxiety and depression, by stimulating dopamine and serotonin production. Therefore, the lack of diagnosis and care of eating disorders is one of the main reasons preventing the long-term implementation of lifestyle changes and control of symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome. The application of questionnaires, such as GAD-7 and PHQ-9, help identify emotional changes affecting the mental health of these patients. In addition, it is essential to work with the support of a multidisciplinary team.
referencesBody
Study suggestion:
Nutritional strategies for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) – Science Play
Watch the video on Science Play with Daniel Coimbra:
Women’s Health and Nutrition
Article: Burnatowska E, Wikarek A, Oboza P, Ogarek N, Glinianowicz M, Kocelak P, Olszanecka-Glinianowicz M. Emotional Eating and Binge Eating Disorders and Night Eating Syndrome in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome—A Vicious Circle of Disease: A Systematic Review. Nutrients
. 2023; 15(2):295. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15020295
